Wildfire in Gironde burns 2,000 hectares, forces evacuation of 12,000 people
The fire, which started Wednesday near the Arcachon basin, has destroyed about 2,000 hectares of forest and prompted the evacuation of 12,000 people, including from campsites and a naturist village north of Cap Ferret.
Fire progression
The wildfire ignited on Wednesday 22 July near the Arcachon basin in the Gironde department of southwestern France. By Wednesday evening, the prefecture reported that flames had consumed approximately 1,200 hectares of forest and that at least 4,600 people had been evacuated from the threatened area. On Thursday 23 July, the prefecture updated the figures: the fire had spread to 2,000 hectares and the total number of evacuees had climbed to 12,000. The blaze is advancing rapidly, driven by high temperatures and dry vegetation, and remains out of control. The prefecture described the fire as "very virulent" in its latest statement. The fire is burning in a region of pine forests and dry scrubland, which has facilitated its rapid spread.
- Fire breaks out near Arcachon basin.
- 4,600 evacuated, 1,200 hectares burned.
- 2,000 hectares burned, 12,000 evacuated, additional 7,000 evacuated from campsites and naturist village.
## Evacuations The evacuation order was expanded on Thursday to cover an additional 7,000 people, bringing the total to 12,000. The measure affects six campsites and a naturist residential domain located north of Cap Ferret, a heavily touristed area during the summer months. The prefecture stated that the additional evacuations were ordered
as a precaution
The initial evacuation on Wednesday evening had already moved 4,600 people from their homes and accommodations in the fire's path. No injuries have been reported among residents or tourists. The six campsites and the naturist domain are situated in a wooded area north of Cap Ferret, a peninsula popular for its beaches and oyster farms.
Firefighting deployment
More than 500 firefighters have been mobilized to combat the flames, according to Italian broadcaster Rai. Ground crews are working to contain the fire's spread through pine forests and dry scrubland. The prefecture is coordinating the emergency response and issuing regular updates. The fire grew from 1,200 to 2,000 hectares in less than a day, as firefighters faced high temperatures and dry fuel. No containment has been reported as of Thursday morning. Firefighters are focusing on protecting populated areas and preventing the fire from reaching the coast. Italian media described the blaze as "fuori controllo" (out of control).
Tourism and environmental impact
Cap Ferret is one of the most popular seaside destinations on the French Atlantic coast, drawing large numbers of holidaymakers each summer. The evacuation of campsites and a naturist village disrupts the peak tourist season. The Arcachon basin is also known for its oyster farming and extensive pine forests, which are now threatened by the advancing flames. The fire has already destroyed 2,000 hectares of woodland, with the potential for further damage if containment is not achieved. The evacuations have disrupted the holidays of thousands of tourists, with campsites and holiday homes emptied. Local authorities have urged people to avoid the area and follow safety instructions.
